Individuals taking Coumadin can reduce the risk of complications by avoiding certain dietary supplements. Specifically, some supplements with antioxidant properties should not be taken while on blood thinners. If you are prescribed Coumadin, consult your health care provider before taking antioxidant supplements as they may diminish the effectiveness of your blood-thinning medication.
Coumadin
Coumadin is the brand name for the generic drug warfarin, which helps prevent the formation of blood clots and reduces the risk of existing clots growing bigger. It is also prescribed for some kinds of irregular heartbeats, those with prosthetic heart valves, and heart attack survivors, explains PubMed Health. Coumadin is called a blood thinner or anticoagulant drug. Side effects can include gas, changes in the way food tastes, hair loss, fatigue and cold chills. When taking Coumadin, wear either a medical bracelet or have a card that you carry to let medical providers know you are taking this drug.
Antioxidants
When the body breaks down food or is exposed to toxins such as cigarette smoke, substances called free radicals form. Free radicals cause oxidative damage to cells and are thought to contribute to age-related cell damage and increase the risk of certain diseases such as cancer. Antioxidants are substances that may help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals, and can be found in many dietary sources, as well as supplements. Vitamins A, C and E, beta-carotene, selenium, lutein and lycopene are all antioxidants, says MedlinePlus, as is the popular supplement CoQ10. Before taking any antioxidant supplements, talk with your doctor about safety.
Effects of Antioxidants and Coumadin
Foods containing antioxidants such as fruits and vegetables are generally healthy for you, but boosting antioxidant intake with supplements such as green tea should not be undertaken while on Coumadin. The University of Maryland Medical Center explains that some formulations of green tea may contain vitamin K, which can interfere with the effectiveness of Coumadin. Leafy green vegetables and cranberries are prohibited while on Coumadin, but other foods containing antioxidants are not listed as risky, according to Drugs.com.
Considerations
When taking Coumadin, monitor your vitamin K intake and avoid drinking cranberry juice or eating foods that contain cranberries, says PubMed Health. Before using any vitamin or antioxidant supplement, talk with your doctor to see if it is safe to use while on Coumadin.
